Lithium-ion Cells - New CINS Guidelines for SP188 Shipments

The International Safe Containerised Cargo Organisation (“CINS”) has published new operational guidance for the safe carriage of higher risk lithium-ion battery shipments carried under Special Provision 188 (“SP188”): CINS Operational Guidelines for Lithium-ion Batteries Shipped under SP188 - November 2026.

The guidance highlights the risks associated with the transport of lithium-ion cells and batteries, including fire and thermal runaway, and provides practical recommendations relating to information obtained during booking to enable risk assessment and appropriate measures to be taken to plan risk-based stowage, ensure cargo visibility, inspection, enhanced firefighting preparedness and compliance with the IMDG Code.

Members and assureds involved in the carriage of lithium-ion cargoes are encouraged to review the guidance and ensure that their procedures and risk management practices remain aligned with the latest industry recommendations.

More CINS Guidelines on carriage of Lithium-ion Cells are available at the below links:

• CINS Guidelines for Shipping Lithium-ion Cells and Batteries in Containers - April 2026

• CINS Lithium-ion Cells Guidelines - June 2025